6 Customer Appreciation Ideas for Your Small Business

Do you know what the two most powerful words in the English language are?

“Thank you.”

It’s a phrase that opens doors, cements relationships, and makes an impression that people remember for a long time. That’s why it’s so important to say thanks to your customers and say it in just the right ways.

If you’re not sure how to show customer appreciation, skim the list below for some inspiration. Thank them sincerely and you’ll effectively express your gratitude while encouraging them to stick around.

1. Handwritten Note

Most mail is a mix of invoices that get set aside and promotions that go in the garbage. So when a customer receives a piece of mail that adds value to their day, it’s a memorable experience.

A thank-you note doesn’t even have to be long. As long as it’s personalized and handwritten, just a few sentences about the projects you’ve enjoyed working on and how much you appreciate their business is enough.

2. Host Events

To thank all your customers at once, organize an event. It can be as simple as a networking hour at your office, extended shopping in your store with drinks and snacks, or a VIP seminar that educates them on a need your business fills.

In addition to showing your appreciation, you’ll boost your credibility in the minds of anyone who attends.

3. Give a Worthwhile Read

For a highly individual gift, drop off a business book that influenced you at a client’s office with a personal note written to them on the inside. Your client will think of you every time they pick it up, learn about your culture, and open the door to future conversation surrounding the useful read you gave them.

4. Send a Tasty Treat

Be the one to make your customer’s whole office smile by sending a treat like cookies or a fruit arrangement. Some services even have the option of a personalized tin that can feature your company’s name, logo, and colors along with a personal message.

Steer clear of ingredients known to trigger food allergies and this gift will make a long-lasting, positive impression.

5. Get Social

Social networks are versatile tools for marketing and customer service, and they also offer options for appreciating your customers. If you’d like to thank customers for interacting with your social media, announce on the network of your choice that customers who mention a certain post will receive a discount, special bonus, or other incentive. It’ll serve as a welcome thank-you and a helpful boost to your online marketing efforts.

Another option to try is mentioning a specific customer in a social media message thanking them for their business. You could also feature them on your website with a link back to their site, sending them traffic and credibility - two gifts any business would love to receive.

6. Refer Business

Build a partnership with clients by referring new business to them when the opportunities arrive. By sending potential clients their way you communicate the fact that you trust their people, their work, and want them to succeed. Whether the referral works out or not, you’ll be sure to receive some gratitude in return and build on the partnership you’ve already created.

Showing your customers that you appreciate them doesn’t have to take up much time. These ways of saying “thank you” can be built into your routine and done on the fly by either you or your staff. By taking just a few moments to tell customers that you appreciate their business, you’ll increase their loyalty and improve your relationship going forward.

About the Author: Jeff Reinstein is the Chief Executive Office of Premier Business Centers. He has helped the company grow from 9 center locations to more than 70 since he first joined the team in 2002.